Features 2002

Be responsible to yourself about supplements

 ... consult your doctor, try it, see if it works for you ...

by Shirley Rabb

To take or not to take supplements is a choice based on one's needs. In my experience of selling vitamins and supplements, I have seen many customers helped by taking certain products,and yet some that have difficulty taking the same of similar products.

Recently there was a six-week study highlighting the herb Ginkgo Biloba, with findings that this herb did not help with memory loss. I do not believe that a six-week test is a true test of any product. Months or years of study would better be able to judge the value of any item. The herb Ginkgo has been researched extensively in both France and Germany where it is used commonly as a prescribed drug.

Ginkgo is said to improve circulation, mental functioning and relieve tinnitus such as "ringing in the ears" and vertigo.

I have seen some very good results with memory enhancement. My first real surprise was when an acquaintance asked, "Did you ever stand in front of the fridge with the door open and wonder what you were looking for?" Her own reply was, "Well, now I know." She had been taking 60 milligrams of Ginkgo twice a day for three months and was now finding very good results. I have also had numerous people tell me that taking Ginkgo now controls the ringing in their ears. When I took Ginkgo under the assumption it would help my migraine headaches, I found it did not work for me.

Herbs or vitamins that are "natural" are not magic. Because Ginkgo helps circulation, it allows more blood to flow freely through the body and brain; therefore, it is also considered a blood thinner, and people taking Coumadin-like medication should weigh the effects of taking Ginkgo. Research any supplement you are thinking of taking and consult with your doctor.

Ginkgo is a good and helpful herb for many, but, is it for you?


October 4, 2002


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